After a seven-year battle for survival in the waters off South Korea’s Jeju Island, Teok I, the resilient dolphin who inspired many, has sadly passed away.
On Tuesday, Jeju International Broadcasting System reported that Oh Seung Mok, director of the documentary production company Documentary Jeju, confirmed the discovery of Teok I’s body on Monday afternoon near Jungmun Beach in Seogwipo City.
Teok I first captured public attention in 2019 when she was spotted off the Jeju coast with a visibly deformed jaw. She was unable to fully close her mouth due to a tumor, which gave her jaw a distinct bend. Experts believe that a combination of coastal overdevelopment, marine pollution, and the effects of climate change likely contributed to the condition. The dolphin was suspected to be suffering from oral cancer.
A Symbol of Resilience
Despite the physical challenges that made it difficult to hunt and feed, Teok I displayed remarkable resilience over the years. Her ability to survive against the odds turned her into a symbol of hope for many in South Korea and beyond.
Oh Seung Mok, who has documented Teok I’s journey over the years, said, “The footage we captured early on Sunday morning appears to be the last images of Teok I alive.” He added that she appeared to have died less than 24 hours before her body was found.
Marine biologists and environmental experts say Teok I’s story is a powerful illustration of the growing toll human activity is taking on marine ecosystems. Pollution, plastic waste, and coastal development are posing serious threats to the health of marine species around the world, including dolphins.
Oh Seung Mok expressed his condolences, stating, “A necropsy will be necessary to determine the exact cause of death, and it should also help confirm whether the suspected illness was present. I sincerely hope that Teok, I can now rest peacefully in a beautiful place.”
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